A sucessful dog licensing program

As the City of San Antonio works towards solving the pet overpopulation problem, it’s helpful to look at some model programs around the country. Calgary has a successful dog licensing program where currently there are more than 90,000 licensed dogs in the city of Calgary, which represents 90 percent of the reported dog population in Calgary. Can you imagine having 90 percent dog license compliance in San Antonio?

Because of their program, the city of Calgary Animal Services has a save rate of 97 percent of dogs. More than 89 percent are returned to their owners and approximately 85 percent returned within 24 hours. That’s what collars and tags, microchips, and city license tags can do.

Of course, we need to put this in perspective. Calgary impounds only 5,000 dogs annually, compared to about 50,000 in San Antonio. But the steps they used to achieve their goals could be used as a model. Click here to read more on this model program.

About the Author

Cathy M. Rosenthal has more than 25 years of experience in public relations, communications and humane education in the animal welfare field. She has worked for local humane societies and national humane groups, appearing on hundreds of television and radio news and public affairs programs to address animal issues. She currently is a consultant for local and national animal welfare organizations, writing grants, annual reports and other marketing materials. She is also the author of several children's books about animals.